Deadline: 18-Jan-2026
People in Need, with funding from Switzerland through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, is offering Micro-grants of up to $2,000 to support training and retraining for economically vulnerable individuals in Ukraine. The programme targets displaced persons and other priority groups affected by war-related job or income loss, with applications closing on 18 January 2026.
The Czech humanitarian organization People in Need, supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, has launched a micro-grants competition to help individuals with limited economic opportunities access vocational training and retraining. The initiative aims to improve employability and income prospects for people affected by war-related disruptions and economic hardship.
Purpose of the Micro-Grant Programme
The micro-grants programme is designed to enable vulnerable individuals to acquire new skills or change professions through short-term training. By supporting access to certified training providers, the programme helps participants re-enter the labour market, adapt to changing economic conditions, and improve long-term self-reliance.
Who the Programme Is For
The programme prioritises individuals who face heightened economic and social vulnerability. Priority groups include:
• Persons with disabilities
• Internally displaced persons (IDPs)
• Single mothers, fathers, or guardians
• People of pre-retirement age (50+) and older persons (60+)
• Representatives of ethnic minorities
• Veterans
The call is open to local residents and IDPs living in targeted communities who have lost employment, income, or business due to the war, as well as individuals seeking retraining to change their profession.
Grant Amount and Financial Support
Selected applicants may receive financial support under the following conditions:
• Maximum grant amount: up to $2,000
• Paid in hryvnia equivalent at the official National Bank of Ukraine exchange rate
• Exchange rate applied on the first day of the month in which the grant agreement is signed
• Final grant size depends on the approved proposal and budget
Training Duration and Format
The programme supports short-term, practical learning opportunities.
• Training or retraining duration: up to 6 months
• Training format: online or offline
• Training provider must be registered in Ukraine
• Provider must hold relevant KVED codes for courses, trainings, or seminars in the selected field
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following conditions.
• At least 18 years old
• Meet defined low-income criteria based on household income over the previous six months
• Belong to a target or priority group
• Have not previously received grant assistance from People in Need
• Submit only one application per household
Required Application Documents
Applications must be complete and clearly prepared. Required elements include:
• Fully completed application form
• Motivation letter explaining the purpose of the training
• Description of intended employment or potential employers after training
• Confirmation of intent to complete the training within six months
Successful applicants must later provide proof of completion, such as a certificate or similar document issued by the training provider.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of two structured rounds.
Round 1: Eligibility and Compliance Check
Applications are reviewed for compliance with programme conditions, including:
• Completeness and accuracy of information
• Confirmation of training intent
• Economic vulnerability and income eligibility
• Territorial eligibility
• Understanding of the six-month training timeframe
• Absence of prior People in Need grant support
Round 2: Interview and Qualitative Assessment
Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview conducted by People in Need representatives. Evaluation focuses on:
• Motivation and clarity of training goals
• Relevance of the chosen course to labour market needs
• Feasibility within the six-month period
• Expected certification outcomes
• Belonging to priority or vulnerable population groups
Preference is given to applicants who have not received grant support from other organisations or the state within the past year.
Why This Grant Matters
Access to affordable training is a major barrier for people affected by conflict and economic instability. This micro-grant programme provides targeted financial support to help vulnerable individuals rebuild skills, improve employability, and regain economic independence while responding directly to local labour market needs.
Important Conditions and Restrictions
Applicants should note the following rules.
• Only one application per household is allowed
• All application sections must be completed accurately
• Incomplete or non-compliant applications will not be reviewed
• Submission of an application does not guarantee funding
How to Apply
Interested applicants should carefully prepare all required information and submit their application before the deadline. Ensure that the selected training provider meets registration and KVED requirements and that the proposed training plan is realistic within the six-month timeframe.
Key Dates
Application deadline: 18 January 2026
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Submitting incomplete or unclear application forms
• Choosing unregistered training providers
• Proposing training that exceeds six months
• Providing inaccurate income or household information
• Submitting more than one application per household
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the People in Need micro-grants?
Economically vulnerable adults aged 18 and over, including IDPs and priority groups affected by war-related income loss.
How much funding is available per applicant?
Up to $2,000 in hryvnia equivalent, depending on the approved budget.
What types of training are supported?
Vocational training or retraining delivered online or offline by registered Ukrainian providers.
Is a motivation letter required?
Yes, applicants must explain why they chose the training and how it will improve employment prospects.
How long can the training last?
Training must be completed within a maximum of six months.
Does applying guarantee receiving a grant?
No, all applications are competitive and subject to eligibility checks and interviews.
Conclusion
The People in Need Micro-Grants for Training programme offers critical support to vulnerable individuals seeking to rebuild livelihoods through skills development. By funding practical, job-oriented training and prioritising those most affected by economic hardship, the initiative contributes to recovery, resilience, and long-term employment opportunities in Ukraine.
For more information, visit People in Need.